Confirmed! Lawson locked in for 2026 as Red Bull promotes Hadjar and Tsunoda moves to reserve role

Red Bull has confirmed a full reshuffle of its Formula 1 driver structure for 2026, with Liam Lawson securing his Racing Bulls seat, Isack Hadjar stepping up to partner Max Verstappen, and Yuki Tsunoda moving into a reserve role after losing his place on the grid.

The announcement finalises the last remaining vacancies for 2026 and completes the grid for a season that will introduce sweeping new chassis and power unit regulations.

Lawson keeps Racing Bulls seat as Lindblad makes his debut

Lawson has been confirmed for a second full season at Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, partnering Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad, who will step up from Formula 2 after strong campaigns in the junior categories and FP1 outings at Silverstone and Mexico.

Racing Bulls Team Principal Alan Permane said Lawson’s consistency and composure under pressure had earned him another season.

“Liam has shown impressive performance and professionalism throughout this year, excelling when conditions have been at their hardest,” Permane said.

Lawson welcomed the confirmation as the team prepares for a transitional year under the new regulations.

“It’s an opportunity I’ll continue to be grateful for,” he said. “I’m ready to get to work with the team as we prepare for the challenging season ahead.”

Lindblad, just 18 next season, called the news “a proud moment”, adding he was ready to take on the step to Formula One.

Hadjar steps up after standout rookie season

Hadjar’s promotion to Red Bull Racing comes after an impressive first full year in Formula One that included points in ten Grands Prix and a maiden podium at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies said the 20-year-old had already shown “great maturity”, calling his speed the key factor.

“Most importantly, he has demonstrated the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport,” Mekies said. “We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track.”

Hadjar said joining the senior team was the culmination of years in the Red Bull Junior Programme.

“It’s such a great reward,” he said. “This year with Racing Bulls has been amazing, and I feel ready to go to Red Bull Racing and learn from Max.”

Tsunoda moves into reserve role after five seasons

With Hadjar promoted and Lawson retained, Yuki Tsunoda loses his race seat after five seasons but will remain within the organisation as reserve driver for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls.

Mekies paid tribute to the 25-year-old, noting his development and contribution across the Red Bull system.

“Yuki has matured into a complete racer… his personality is infectious, and he has become a very special part of the Red Bull family,” he said.